Florida Panthers forward Sam Bennett's potential move to Detroit is gaining attention as latest betting odds reveal chances of a blockbuster signing.
As the Stanley Cup Final nears its end and NHL free agency looms on the horizon, the future of Florida Panthers forward Sam Bennett is quickly becoming one of the league’s more intriguing storylines.
Bennett, 28, is in the midst of a standout postseason and could become one of the most sought-after forwards on the market if he tests free agency this summer. With the Detroit Red Wings looking to add a physical, playoff-tested presence to their forward group, the question emerges: Could Bennett make the move to Hockeytown?
This postseason has showcased the very best of Sam Bennett. He has emerged as a force in the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs, tallying 14 goals and 20 points through 20 games, including multiple clutch performances in the Final against Edmonton. His breakaway finish in Game 3 was not just a turning point in the series, but also his record-breaking 12th road goal of the postseason, setting an NHL playoff record.
He tied the Panthers' franchise record for most goals in a single postseason, and his impact extends beyond the scoresheet. Bennett’s physical edge, defensive awareness, and timely scoring have drawn high praise from around the league, with Panthers coach Paul Maurice describing him as “an animal” in the playoffs.
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Bennett’s strong two-way game and ability to thrive in pressure situations make him an attractive target for teams with playoff ambitions. The Red Wings, fresh off a season of growth under Steve Yzerman’s leadership, are expected to be aggressive this offseason. With more than $21 million in projected cap space, Detroit has the flexibility to add a player like Bennett.
His ability to play both center and wing would give the Red Wings versatility in their top six, while his gritty style of play fits the identity they’ve been working to build. Moreover, his Ontario roots and history with Canadian junior systems offer a close to home destination that Bennett could find appealing.
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However, there are notable barriers like Bennett is expected to command a contract in the range of $7 to $8 million annually, which could be a stretch for the Red Wings depending on how they prioritize their spending on the backend. While he brings intensity and playoff experience, his regular season production, most recently 51 points, may not fully justify a top-dollar investment, especially if Detroit is looking for long-term foundational scorers to get them to the postseason.
Some analysts also question whether Bennett is a true top-line talent or more of a complementary player who thrives in a very specific system like Florida’s. According to FanDuel Sportsbook, Bennett is most likely to stay with the Panthers, with odds at –230. The Toronto Maple Leafs follow at +500, while teams like Vegas (+900), Boston (+2200), and Ottawa (+2600) round out the mid-tier options.
Detroit comes in at +3700, indicating that while it’s not out of the question, it’s certainly considered a long shot. Still, the Red Wings have surprised in the past, and Yzerman has shown a willingness to pounce when the right opportunity arises.
If he chooses to test the open market, Detroit has the cap space, the culture, and the vision to make a compelling case. Whether they’ll be able or willing to outbid teams with more urgent short-term needs remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: if Sam Bennett becomes available, the Red Wings will be a team worth watching.
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